During the Biceps Tension Test, what position is the shoulder in?

The Biceps Tension Test is designed to assess the integrity of the biceps tendon, particularly for issues such as tendinopathy or tears. During this test, placing the shoulder in 90 degrees of abduction and external rotation effectively puts the biceps tendon in a stressed position. This posture creates tension in the biceps tendon as it is placed under load, allowing the clinician to evaluate for any signs of pain or dysfunction related to the tendon.

This position is crucial because it mimics the functional demands on the biceps during activities that involve overhead motions or high levels of shoulder abduction, which commonly involve the biceps tendon. The external rotation also helps to stabilize the shoulder joint, allowing for a clearer assessment of the biceps tendon without excessive interference from other structures in the shoulder.

In contrast, other positions do not replicate this critical stress on the biceps tendon as effectively. Some may place the tendon in a less identical scenario to what it experiences during dynamic activities, obscuring potential issues. The choice of this specific position allows for a more precise assessment of the biceps tendon under conditions that are relevant to physical performance and injury.